2016 Triumph Thruxton R: PH2

A new generation of Triumph Thruxton arrives, but how does it compare to the latest retro bikes?

There is no doubting the new Triumph Thruxton R has been one of the most eagerly awaited machines of 2016. Not only does the current trend for retro bikes make its timing absolutely perfect, the Thruxton R fills a gaping hole in Triumph's range that has long required such a bike. The old air-cooled Bonnie models, of which there was a Thruxton variant, served their purpose in life, but they were a bit insubstantial when compared to the new breed of large capacity retros such as the BMW R NineT, Nortons and Yamaha XJR1300. Triumph's customers were asking for a large capacity Thruxton model that could not only keep up with the competition, but could also be used as a practical machine in the way the old Bonnies couldn't. This year Triumph has more than met these demands with a machine that not only looks absolutely stunning, but also has a high level of technology and dynamics like a proper sports bike.

It's a great looking bike, that's for sure

Retro skin, hi-tech heart
Triumph has done a fantastic job in making the Thruxton R appear old school while ensuring the technology is very modern. The fake carbs hide a ride-by-wire fuel injection system and the new 1,200cc parallel twin is water-cooled yet has fins on its barrels to ensure the radiator is small and therefore subtle. Moreover, the suspension uses top quality Ohlins and Showa components, plus there are Brembo monoblock radial brakes. Add to these variable fuel modes, traction control and ABS and it's hard to deny the Thruxton's level of tech. But what really appeals are the subtle touches that owners will really appreciate. Under the seat is a small stand so you can place it on the ground without scratching the paint, as well as a specific C-spanner for easy damper preload adjustment. The bars are also thinner on the R than the stock Thruxton to make it feel sportier, and the clocks have an inbuilt gear indicator. There is an irritation though; if you want to take a pillion you need to buy a new seat as well as the pillion peg hangers, but overall the Thruxton is a really well thought out bike. And one that is remarkably sporty.

Set on the sporty side
Staggeringly, the Thruxton R has a shorter wheelbase than the Speed Triple and almost identical geometry. This hints as how determined Triumph has been to ensure the Thruxton lives up to its sporting heritage and the ride doesn't disappoint. This is a proper sporty retro and one that, on this experience, out handles all of its rivals. Despite appearing quite a weighty bike at a claimed 203kg dry, the Thruxton carries its mass very well and doesn't feel heavy through the corners. If you are used to the sensation of a modern sports bike the Thruxton handles in a very familiar fashion, and can be pushed far harder than any previous Triumph modern retro. This is a bike that could even be taken on a track day and enjoyed, which simply wasn't the case on the old Thruxton model.

Performance and dynamics up with the best

But it isn't overly aggressive or flighty, and the riding position is reasonably comfortable too thanks to the high clip-on bars. The engine is even very relaxed. Some will argue the parallel twin lacks a bit of spirit as it is very smooth thanks to twin balancer shafts, but its lower gearing when compared to the T120 Bonnie models and lighter crank gives it a feeling of urgency that you don't get on those bikes. It's not a motor that feels alive in the way the R nineT's boxer does through its vibrations and torque reaction, but it is a lovely engine for road riding. When you start to push the flat nature of the torque curves does mean you do accidentally hit the rev limiter as the power doesn't build to an obvious gear shift point, but for the kind of customer Triumph is aiming the Thruxton at this won't detract from the bike's appeal at all. And as you would expect, all the electronic assists work seamlessly in the background.

Worth the wait?
Fans of Triumph's modern retros have been waiting a long while for a big capacity Thruxton model, and the R doesn't disappoint. It's a great modern interpretation of its iconic model and has everything the modern motorcyclist demands in terms of electronics and chassis ability while still retaining a fantastic heritage look. The only fly in the ointment is the fact that those who have been initially a bit cautious will be left waiting a bit longer as dealers have sold out of both of the Thruxton models and the back order list is filling up fast!

TRIUMPH THRUXTON R
Engine: 1,200cc parallel twin, water-cooled, 8v
Power (hp): 97@6,750rpm
Torque (lb ft): 83@4,950rpm
Top speed: 135mph (est.)
Weight: 203kg (dry)
MPG: 62 (claimed)
Price: £11,700 (£10,400 for standard Thruxton)